Eswatini Overhauls HR to Improve Trade Facilitation

Eswatini Overhauls HR to Improve Trade Facilitation

Eswatini is addressing trade facilitation challenges by reforming its human resource management system. With WCO support, the SRA conducted a 'People Development Diagnostic' to assess capacity gaps and committed to adopting competency-based management. By building competency models, optimizing training programs, improving performance management, and planning career development, Eswatini aims to enhance customs efficiency and promote economic development. This initiative serves as a valuable example for other developing countries seeking to modernize their customs operations and leverage human capital for improved trade outcomes.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

West Africa Launches Etransit System to Enhance Trade

With the support of the World Customs Organization, five West African countries have launched an electronic transit information project. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of regional trade and facilitate economic integration within the region. By streamlining customs procedures and enhancing data exchange, the project seeks to reduce transit times and lower trade costs, ultimately boosting economic growth and strengthening regional partnerships. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of these nations to fostering a more integrated and prosperous West African trade environment.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Urges Stronger Customsbusiness Ties at Shanghai Forum

WCO Urges Stronger Customsbusiness Ties at Shanghai Forum

The WCO Deputy Secretary General attended the IFCBA conference, emphasizing customs-business cooperation for trade facilitation. The focus was on the efforts of Chinese Customs and discussions centered around WCO surveys aimed at improving trade efficiency. The importance of collaboration between customs authorities and the private sector was highlighted as a key driver for streamlining border procedures and reducing trade costs. The conference provided a platform for exchanging best practices and exploring innovative approaches to enhance customs operations and promote seamless international trade.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Cape Verde Boosts Trade Through Stakeholder Engagement

Cape Verde Boosts Trade Through Stakeholder Engagement

Cabo Verde has made significant progress in trade facilitation through the WCO-WACAM project, with effective stakeholder engagement being key. The project supports Cabo Verde in implementing measures related to the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and enhancing customs management capabilities. Through collaboration, Cabo Verde successfully completed a Time Release Study at Praia Port, laying the foundation for improved national port efficiency and demonstrating the value of a collaborative approach. This initiative highlights Cabo Verde's commitment to streamlining trade processes and fostering economic growth.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and WTO Boost Trade Facilitation Leadership Globally

WCO and WTO Boost Trade Facilitation Leadership Globally

The World Customs Organization (WCO) collaborates closely with the World Trade Organization (WTO) to empower chairs of national trade facilitation committees through initiatives like advanced courses. This partnership aims to enhance their understanding and implementation capabilities regarding the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. The collaboration focuses on simplifying customs procedures, improving border management efficiency, and promoting transparency and sustainable development in global trade. Ultimately, this joint effort contributes to global economic growth by fostering a more streamlined and efficient international trading system.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Gambias Customs Reform Gains WCO Backing for West African Talent Hub

Gambias Customs Reform Gains WCO Backing for West African Talent Hub

The WCO is supporting the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in upgrading its human resources management. This initiative pioneers competency-based HRM in West and Central Africa, aiming to establish a regional hub for talent. The project focuses on developing skills and capabilities within the GRA, ultimately enhancing its operational efficiency and effectiveness. By implementing modern HR practices, the GRA aims to attract, retain, and develop a highly skilled workforce, contributing to improved revenue collection and overall economic development in the region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Madagascar Tax Authority Enhances Revenue Via HR Modernization

Madagascar Tax Authority Enhances Revenue Via HR Modernization

The Madagascar Revenue Authority (MRA) is modernizing its human resource management system with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO). By building a competency-based HR management system and empowering the HR department to become a strategic partner, the MRA aims to improve tax collection efficiency, optimize taxpayer services, and ultimately promote sustainable national economic development. The WCO's continued support will provide strong momentum for the MRA's modernization process. The focus is on developing talent and building capacity within the organization.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Temus Growth Challenges Amazons Ecommerce Dominance

Temus Growth Challenges Amazons Ecommerce Dominance

Pinduoduo's overseas version, Temu, has risen rapidly, rivaling Amazon and reshaping the global cross-border e-commerce landscape. Its fully managed model and low-price strategy are key factors, but it also faces challenges such as tightening tax policies and compliance requirements. In the future, competition in cross-border e-commerce will focus on supply chain efficiency, brand building, and compliant operations. Chinese companies need to seize opportunities and transform from simply 'selling goods' to 'establishing roots' in the global market.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Kenyas Ecommerce Tariffs Challenge Crossborder Sellers

Kenyas Ecommerce Tariffs Challenge Crossborder Sellers

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Kenya's cross-border e-commerce tariff structure, highlighting its reliance on ad valorem taxes and relatively high average tax rates. It emphasizes the importance of understanding tariff policies to reduce costs and improve customs clearance efficiency. The article recommends that cross-border e-commerce businesses thoroughly research customs regulations and choose appropriate logistics channels to achieve compliant operations. Understanding these nuances is crucial for successful and sustainable e-commerce activities within the Kenyan market.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Firms Expand Overseas Warehouses to Offset Tariffs

Ecommerce Firms Expand Overseas Warehouses to Offset Tariffs

Faced with changing US-China tariff policies, cross-border e-commerce companies urgently need to transform. The overseas warehouse model, with its advantages in optimizing tariff costs, improving fulfillment efficiency, and enhancing supply chain resilience, has become crucial for companies to address challenges. Platforms, sellers, and logistics companies are actively adjusting their strategies to restructure the cross-border e-commerce ecosystem. Embracing overseas warehouses and deploying multi-market, multi-channel strategies are key for companies to break through in global competition.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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